Global Accessibility Awareness Day: Fostering Digital Inclusivity in 2023
By: Oumou Diallo
Today marks the 12th Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)! This day is intriguing as it urges us to recognize a different spectrum of obstacles extending beyond physical barriers like never-ending stairs, elevator-less buildings, and cramped restrooms. More specifically, it forces us to acknowledge the realm of digital accessibility. Over the last decade, the internet and social media have assumed significant roles in our daily lives, and it is undeniable that we have all become inseparable from our phones and laptops. Whether we are immersed in an endless loop of scrolling on social media or professionals at work juggling an ever-growing number of tabs, the influence of technology is undeniable.
The Digital Age and Its Influence
GAAD reminds us of our duty to make digital spaces accessible to everyone, regardless of visual, auditory, or mobility limitations. Together, we can implement robust accessibility measures that empower every individual to seize the opportunities of the digital landscape. By embracing this vision, technology can truly enrich the lives of all. Thus, GAAD offers a wonderful opportunity to understand, recognize, and address the issues surrounding digital accessibility.
Understanding Digital Accessibility
First and foremost, it's necessary to distinguish between accommodating individuals and actively promoting accessibility. Accommodations typically cater to one person's needs and react to barriers stemming from inaccessible design, often addressing them on a case-by-case basis. On the other hand, accessible practices can benefit a wide range of individuals by taking a proactive approach to eliminating barriers from the start, such as by incorporating inclusivity into the design of events, programs, and services.
Practical Steps for Digital Accessibility
Here are a few examples of things you can do to make the digital world more accessible:
Adding text descriptions to images shared on social media platforms to assist individuals with visual impairments in comprehending the content
Including subtitles or transcripts alongside videos to enhance content understandability for individuals who are hearing impaired
Ensure optimal colour contrast is employed while creating or editing content, particularly between text colour and background colour, to guarantee effortless readability and visibility for individuals with colour blindness.
The Transformative Power of Accessibility
The internet is a powerful tool that enables the global sharing of thoughts, goals, and everyday activities. It’s essential that these digital spaces are made accessible to all. Even an action as small as adding captions to videos can have transformative impacts for people with hearing impairments, thereby opening the doors of accessibility for millions who would otherwise struggle to understand the content. Hence, by prioritizing accessibility, we create a stronger, more vibrant, and more empathetic society that embraces inclusivity.
Join the Movement for Global Accessibility
Let's come together to create a barrier-free digital world and foster a society where every voice is heard, ideas are shared, and dreams are nurtured, regardless of ability or circumstances.
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Header image (man looking at his phone) via Alana Winchester Photography
Oumou Diallo has personally witnessed the impact of limited accessibility and services on a loved one with physical disabilities. As a result of these experiences, she has a profound sense of empathy for individuals facing similar challenges. With a strong belief in the remarkable potential of Whimble, she envisions it as a revolutionary tool that would effectively bridge the gaps that often emerge during moments of crisis in the lives of People with Disabilities. With unwavering conviction, Oumou firmly believes that this service will be a game changer in the lives of many.
